Lemon

Product Details

Botanical name

Citrus limonum

Extraction method / Source

Cold pressed / rind of the fruit (Pressing without heat preserves the aromatic and therapeutic qualities of the essential oil)

Aroma

Fresh, sweet, sharp, citrusy

Note classification

Top

Odor Intensity

2

Key constituents

Limonene, beta-pinene, sabinene, alpha-pinene

Plant description

Botanical family: Rutaceae (citrus)

Lemon is an evergreen citrus tree native to Asia, and is now grown in many temperate areas of the globe. The lemon tree reaches a height of 10 - 20 feet and produces fragrant white flowers and bright yellow edible fruit.

Regions of Production

USA

Growing Practices

Cultivated without the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides

History / Fun Facts

Lemon essential oil is high in limonene, which has been studied extensively for its anti-tumor properties. Jean Valnet, MD demonstrated that vaporized lemon oil killed meningecoccal bacteria in 15 minutes, typhoid bacilli in 60 minutes, staphylococcus aureus bacteria in 2 hours and pneumococcus bacteria in 3 hours. A solution of 0.2% lemon oil has been shown to inactivate tuberculosis bacteria and kill diphtheria bacteria in less than 20 minutes. A study conducted at a University in Japan showed that diffusing lemon essential oil in an office environment reduced clerical errors by over 50%!

Properties

Antimicrobial, antirheumatic,, antiseptic, antispasmodic, astringent, bactericidal, carminative, cicatrisant, depurative, diaphoretic, diuretic, febrifuge, hemostatic, hypotensive, insecticidal, rubifacient, tonic, vermifuge (Battaglia, 2003)

Please refer to the Glossary for terms which may be new to you.

Uses / Benefits

Supports healthy circulation, beneficial in the management of varicose veins and high blood pressure. Helps to break down subcutaneous cellulite. Reduces oiliness of the skin, beneficial in the management of acne, reduces skin wrinkles. A popular scent for soap and candle making.

Fragrant influences

Promotes mental clarity, increases alertness, sharpens the senses, reduces anxiety, improves memory and mood.

Modes of Administration

Topical: massage, compress, skin care lotions, creams and ointments.

Inhalation: direct inhalation, diffuser, oil vaporizer, aromatherpay inhaler.

Blends well with

Basil, Bay, Bergamot, Dill, Fennel, Frankincense, Geranium, Hyssop, Lavender, Nutmeg, Orange, Peppermint, Rosemary, Ylang Ylang

Safety

Non-toxic, non-irritant. May make skin more sensitive to sunlight. Avoid applying to skin that will be exposed to direct sunlight or UV light within 24 hours.

Notice

This information is for educational purposes only. It has not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition or disease. Although we strive to provide information which is accurate and up to date, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.

Precautions

Pure essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts. Do not use them undiluted, or in the eyes or mucus membranes. If applying an essential oil to the skin, always dilute it with a proper carrier oil and test on a small patch of skin before applying to a large area. Do not take them internally except under the direction of a qualified professional trained in Aromatherapy. Always familiarize yourself with the safety, contraindications and proper preparation of each essential oil before use. Note that when using essential oils for children and the elderly, very low concentrations should be used. Keep all essential oils away from children and pets.

References

Althea Press, Essential Oils: Natural Remedies, 2015. Althea Press, Berkeley, CA.

Battaglia, Salvatore, The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy, Second Edition, 2003. The International Centre of Holistic Aromatherapy, Brisbane, Australia

Cooksley, Valerie Gennari, Aromatherapy: Soothing Remedies to Restore, Rejuvenate, and Heal, 2002. Prentice Hall Press, New York, NY.

Cooksley, Valerie Gennari, Aromatherapy: A Holistic Guide to Natural Healing with Essential Oils, 2015. Floramed Publishing, The Woodlands, TX.

England, Allison, Aromatherapy for Mother and Baby, 1994. Healing Arts Press, Rochester, VT.

Green, Mindy, Natural Perfumes, 1999. Interweave Press, Loveland, CO.

Hampton, Aubrey, Natural and Organic Hair and Skin Care, 1987. Organica Press, Tampa, FL.

International Fragrance Research Association, http://www.ifraorg.org/en-us/standards (January 5, 2016)

Schnaubelt, Kurt, The Healing Intelligence of Essential Oils: The Science of Aromatherapy, 2011. Healing Arts Press, Rochester, VT.

Schnaubelt, Kurt, Advanced Aromatherapy: The Science of Essential Oil Therapy, (English translation)1998. Healing Arts Press, Rochester, VT.

Tourles, Stephanie L, Hands On Healing Remedies, 2012. Storey Publishing, North Adams, MA.

United States Food and Drug Administration, HHS, 182.1 Substances That Are Generally Recognized as Safe, 182.20 Essential oils, Oleoresins (solvent-free), and natural extractives (including distillates), http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/CFR-2012-title21-vol3-sec182 (January 28, 2016)

Worwood, Valerie Ann, The Complete Book of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy, 1991. New World Library, Novato, CA.

TIMELESS Essential Oils guarantees the purity and quality of all our therapeutic oils. The current Certificate of Analysis is available upon request. All essential oils are best stored in an airtight container away from heat and light.